The post office in Sadlers Walk was shut along with hundreds of others in a nationwide reorganisation of the Post Office company.

It was one of two planned to close in Chichester – the other, in Parklands, was saved from the axe when Post Office bosses changed their minds after feedback from the public consultation.

Businesses in the arcade in East Street had previously told the Observer they feared losing the post office would have serious implications for trade as fewer people would visit the shops on their way through.

Mike Repp, who works in Whitby's in the arcade, said: "It is terrible that it is closing. It will have an impact on the customer flow.

"They were always very helpful and it was always very busy."

Chichester resident Silvia Hall said: "It is a great shame for the centre here, and the people on this side of the city.

"It was a local friendly shop with personalised service which was excellent."

Brian Cope, who lives in Parklands, said: "I always used it when I was in town. I think for the people living in the centre it will be a major problem.

"It is sad because they fulfil a useful service."

It was also a sad day for Four Seasons Country Store, in West Wittering, on Friday, May 16, when its post office opened for the last time.

Gloria Drew, who owns the convenience store with husband James, said having the post office as part of their business was like having a 'social club'.

The sub post office at the store, in Rookwood Road, officially closed at 1pm.

Mrs Drew said: "We are all very sad. Most of the customers can't believe it's gone. I was very happy to see Parklands saved – it's just a shame ours couldn't be saved as well.

"We understood the problems and there's nothing we can do about it. We are trying to be optimistic."

The owners are hoping to extend the food section and place a chilled fridge for sandwiches where the post office used to be.




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